Severe Weather to Churn Through Gulf Coast and Southeast

A system that is bringing snow to the higher terrains of the Southwest and the High Plains will push into the Gulf Coast and the Southeast this weekend, resulting in the threat of locally severe storms. Here is what you need to know as you firm up your weekend plans.

Gulf Coast Under the Gun for Thunderstorm Development

Forecasters are warning those along the Gulf Coast to be prepared for the risk of thunderstorms this weekend. Some of the strongest storm cells will pack the likelihood of strong winds, flooding downpours, and large hail.

The line of storms will move to the east throughout the weekend, impacting millions in its path as it churns through the south-central U.S. on its way to the Southeast and northern Florida. The warm and moist air coming up from the Gulf of Mexico will fuel the development of these storms.

Travelers will want to monitor these developments, particularly those planning to use Interstate 10 across the Gulf states. Airport hubs across the region may also be impacted by these clusters of storms at times.

People with outdoor plans will also want to be aware of the threat of frequent lightning strikes. Remember to head indoors at the first rumble of thunder. Flooding rain is another concern with this weather maker. The rain is likely to be heavy enough to create the risk of flash flooding and reduced visibility on the roadways.

Saturday's forecast is calling for the storms to track to the east through eastern portions of Texas and Louisiana and into southern Mississippi and Alabama. The system is forecast to reach the western portion of the Florida Panhandle by the end of the day.

New Orleans will wake up to garden variety rain showers on Saturday. However, this rain is forecast to evolve into thunderstorms by the latter part of the day and into the evening hours. Highs will reach the low 70s before slipping to about 63 degrees overnight. It will be a breezy day in the Crescent City with winds out of the east at 10 to 15 mph.

The good news is that the weekend will be salvaged in New Orleans with pleasant weather expected on Sunday. Two major Mardi Gras parades were rescheduled to Sunday after Tuesday's severe weather event. Sunday is shaping up to see a mix of sun and clouds with highs in the upper 60s and just a slight chance of an errant rain shower.